As we get older, we start to understand that we cannot plan the path of our lives. As much as we think that we can predict and plan what we are going to be doing or who we will be with, that is just not possible. This sentiment is just as true for a musician's career. Bands come and go, genres change, and connections in the industry may even throw in a curve ball. Cody Jinks, outlaw and quickly rising superstar of the independent music movement, used to sing heavy metal. He now sings some of the most incredible songs in country music period. Talk about a change!​ This same change is true for alt-country singer-songwriter, Kirk Baxley who has gone from being a rock front-man of "Greatness in Tragedy" to a singer of country music.

I was unfamiliar with Baxley's music and I had come across him a couple years ago when I had received a friend request on Facebook. Admittedly, I did not look into his music right away. As I began to get more into the Texas radio stations and charts, I started to see Baxley's name pop up. This led me to investigate and uncover his unique brand of country music, which often features rock inspired arrangements with a heavy dose of pedal steel throughout.​

Kirk Baxley releases a new full length album, "The Pain We Bring" June 16th, which he funded via Kickstarter. He had stated it was time for him to get serious about his music and went all in on this album. Throughout the whole process, he displayed that he was not messing around. The album artwork, the merchandise, and most importantly, the music – the best it's been for Baxley.

The first song that I had heard off this album was, "Cold As A stone," which I covered in the winter on social media. It features the talent Kylie Frey who aids in this wonderful duet about a failed relationship. While there was certainly a lack of attention on one half of the relationship, the other partner cheated. Each side acknowledges their faults, but it's over now and time to move on. The chemistry that these two have is undeniable and it makes for a powerful song that is worthy of your time.

Heartbreak from the road comes through your speakers in "The Pain We Bring." This song resonates with most artist because it is a demanding lifestyle and sometimes their partners don't understand or even want to care. It's not a lifestyle that is easy to endure if both people aren't on the same page. Baxley is able to hone his vocals to be full of pain with this track. It really is impressive to hear the range that this guy has. He has a powerful voice no doubt, but man, he can display his heart and emotion in such an impressive way.​A favorite track of mine is "Don't Stop Loving Me" as it does an excellent job of showing Kirk Baxley's range in his voice and the depth of his music. While likely unassuming to some, he sings from the heart and this song lets you feel the passion he has. You don't just hear him say "don't stop loving me," you can actually picture him saying it to his loved one. That's one of the reasons why I enjoy his music so much. Even Aaron Watson said something similar:

"It's refreshing to hear a singer that's actually a true artist. Kirk Baxley paints his own picture by pouring nothing but heart and soul into his songs. As a friend, I'm excited to see what the good Lord has in store for his career. This is some good stuff! Check it out!"

That is a huge compliment from someone as talented and established as Aaron Watson is. Talented peers recognizing your work has to be one of the high levels of compliments available, and Baxley is deserving of them.​I believe that this album will be a large moment in Kirk Baxley's musical career. He has displayed that he is serious about his music and has crafted an album that I have listened to many times since receiving it last week. His music is honest, heartfelt, and while possessing some rock attributes, it's laced with steel and pedal guitar which is a real treat. Recently, I have seen tour dates that have him opening for a Pitstop for Country favorite, Stoney Larue. That's an incredible honor for any country artist. Being an artist is about exploring your creative talents and sharing them with others. I commend his efforts on "The Pain We Bring" and look forward to the success heading his way.

Be sure to follow Kirk on all social media and pick-up a copy of "The Pain We Bring" today!